The Cancer in Pregnancy Forum

Archived Questions and Answers
This Forum has been the centre of an exceptional exchange of knowledge diagnosis, treatment, symptoms and other effects of cancer during pregnancy and lactation. All are welcome to review the Questions and Answers posted here, provided that they acknowledge and accept the important proviso and disclaimer below.

Question:
A man has psoriatic arthritis and takes 20mg methotrexate every week . Now he would like to start a family, is there evidence of any damage to a fetus. What is the advise in this case?

Answer:

If you are a patient, consult your physician. The following should not replace the assessment and advice you have been receiving or may receive from your physician (cancer specialist, obstetrician or other healthcare provider). It is offered for your information only.

Methotrexate is a folic acid antagonist that disrupts DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, resulting in cell death. Concerns about methotrexate?s effects are related to the fact that methotrexate damages or kills cells undergoing division, a process that occurs during the production of spermatozoa.

Studies of methotrexate use in the male population have focused almost exclusively on its effects on fertility. Several studies report no effect on male fertility. Others report reversible sterility among men using methotrexate.

The information regarding pregnancy outcome following methotrexate is lacking. There have been some reports of normal children born to men with methrotrexate-containing regimens. Presently there is no evidence that paternal methotrexate use can cause harm to embryos.

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